Punjab Food Authority Seals Illegal Ketchup, Mayonnaise Unit in Lahore

The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) has sealed an illegal production unit manufacturing ketchup and mayonnaise in Mian Mubarak Town, Nishtar Town, Lahore. The operation, conducted on the instructions of PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid, resulted in the destruction of 5,000 kilograms of substandard ketchup and mayonnaise valued at Rs2.5 million.

According to officials, the raid was carried out after on-the-spot samples of the products failed laboratory tests. The PFA stated that the counterfeit ketchup and mayonnaise were being packaged with labels of well-known brands in an attempt to deceive consumers, particularly targeting fast food restaurants during Ramazan.

Authorities discovered that non-food grade ingredients were being used in the production process. Additionally, the facility lacked mandatory documentation and workers' medical certificates. Inspectors also reported the presence of insects inside the unit, and observed that ketchup was being stored in dirty, rusted containers.

Following the raid, a case was registered against the owners of the unit and a fine of Rs300,000 was imposed. The PFA has initiated an investigation to trace the supply chain of the counterfeit products.

PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid emphasized the authority's commitment to ensuring food safety and warned that strict action would continue against those involved in the production and distribution of substandard food items.